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An extensive revision of US pediatric immunisation protocols has resulted in a reduction in the number of universally recommended immunizations from 17 to 11.

The newly issued schedule from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention retains essential shots for diseases like polio and rubeola. However, several others, such as liver infection vaccines and Covid vaccines, are now categorized based on individual risk and dependent on "joint clinical decision-making" involving physicians and parents.

"The revised recommendation is risky and needless," criticized the American Academy of Pediatrics, describing the change.

This far-reaching policy change represents the latest significant move undertaken under the current administration by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Government Justification and Global Alignment

Kennedy asserted the revision followed "following an exhaustive analysis" and "safeguards children, honors families, and restores trust in public health."

"This bringing the U.S. pediatric vaccine schedule with international standards while enhancing openness and parental choice," he added.

According to the announcement, the updated core schedule for every minors will include immunizations for:

• Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)
• Poliovirus
• Pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus, and diphtheria (DTaP/Tdap)
• Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
• Pneumococcal infection
• HPV
• Chickenpox

3 Categories of Recommendations

The new structure creates 3 distinct categories of immunization guidance:

1. Universal Recommendations: The 11 shots listed above are advised for all youngsters.
2. Risk-Based Recommendations: This category includes shots for respiratory syncytial virus, hepatitis A, Hep B, dengue fever, and meningitis strains (ACWY and B). They are suggested based on a child's individual health circumstances.
3. Optional Group: Vaccinations for the coronavirus, influenza, and rotavirus are now left to case-by-case discussion and choice between families and their doctors.

For the time being, medical insurance will still cover immunizations that are currently recommended until the close of 2025.

International Perspective and Recent Debate

The health agency conducted a comparison of current childhood recommendations with those of 20 other developed nations. It determined the United States was "a global outlier" in both the quantity of illnesses covered and the amount of shots required, the Department of Health and Human Services said.

This latest change follows weeks following a different CDC committee modified the schedule for the first liver infection shot. Formerly, a first dose was advised for newborns within 24 hours of delivery. Updated guidelines last winter moved that to two months after birth if the mother tested non-reactive for the virus.

That earlier change was roundly criticised by paediatricians, with the American Academy of Pediatrics describing it "a dangerous move that will harm children."